Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

Dear Sir/Madam,
As a concerned resident of the Netherlands, I would like to respond to this bill. I acknowledge the intention to extend the naturalization period from five to ten years for better integration, but I am concerned about the impact on existing migrants and propose an adjustment.
General comments
The extension in Article 8, paragraph 1, subsection c, from five to ten years creates uncertainty for migrants who already contribute to the Netherlands. Despite exceptions with a five-year period, Article II's transitional arrangement should be expanded.
Specific suggestion: Introduction of a grace period
Article II only protects pending applications, but not migrants with three or four years of residence. I propose a two-year grace period after entry into force, during which residents with at least three years of legal residence can still naturalize under the old five-year period, provided they reach five years within two years. This prevents frustration and loss of talent. Proposed amendment:
• “Article 8 of the Kingdom Act on Dutch Citizenship, as it read before the entry into force of Article I, Section B, remains applicable to applications submitted within two years of the entry into force, if the applicant has had at least three years of legal residence.”
This ensures a fair transition.
Other comments
• Amendments to Articles 6a, 15, and 16, and the deletion of Article 26, seem useful to prevent abuse.
• Consider the administrative burden at the Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) to avoid delays.
Thank you for the opportunity to respond. I hope you will consider my suggestion.